In the heart of the Manchegan plains of Cuenca, surrounded by wheat fields and gentle rolling hills, lies Villaescusa de Haro, a small village with a distinguished past and a peaceful present. Ideal for travelers in search of lesser-known historical treasures, this town was once hailed as the "Athens of La Mancha" during the Renaissance thanks to its remarkable cultural and architectural heritage.

History: From Medieval Hamlet to Renaissance Intellectual Hub

Villaescusa de Haro dates back to the Middle Ages, but its golden age arrived in the 15th and 16th centuries when it became part of the lordship of the Carrillo family and later the Marquisate of Villena. Under their patronage, the village flourished and grew in prestige and wealth.

The pinnacle of its cultural influence came in the 16th century with the founding of the University of Santa Catalina, established by Bishop Don Diego Ramírez de Villaescusa, a native son of the town. This institution rivaled the University of Alcalá de Henares and attracted scholars and students from across the Iberian Peninsula. Although it was closed in the 17th century, its legacy lives on in the village's historic architecture.

Monumental Heritage: A Lesson in History at Every Turn

University of Santa Catalina

Today in ruins, this building remains a powerful symbol of Villaescusa's intellectual past. Its Renaissance design and classical layout offer a glimpse into its former academic life. The site has been declared a Cultural Heritage Monument.

Church of San Pedro Apóstol

This large parish church blends Gothic and Renaissance styles and was built beginning in the 15th century. Its standout features include a Plateresque portal, an elegant rose window, and a majestic Baroque altarpiece. Inside, the church holds several valuable works of religious art.

Convent of the Dominican Nuns

Built in the 16th century, the convent complex retains its church and part of the cloister. Despite being partially in ruins, it still reflects the religious importance of the town in past centuries.

Noble Houses and Civil Architecture

Villaescusa de Haro is dotted with noble residences, featuring carved stone portals, heraldic crests, and beautiful wrought iron balconies. Notable examples include the House of the Ramírez Family, the House of the Order, and the House of the Carrillos.

Festivals and Popular Traditions

Villaescusa's festive calendar offers a blend of religious devotion, cultural events, and culinary delights:

• Patron Saint Festivities of San Pedro Apóstol (June 29): mass, procession, music, and lively celebrations.
• Holy Week: marked by solemn processions and historical floats.
• Octave of Corpus Christi: recently revived, featuring sawdust carpets and religious activities.

• Villaescusa Renaissance Historical Days (summer): historical reenactments, markets, and guided tours that transport the town back to its Renaissance glory.

   

Nature and Surroundings

The natural surroundings of Villaescusa de Haro are ideal for peaceful walks among olive groves and golden fields typical of the Manchegan landscape. Nearby attractions include the Segóbriga Archaeological Park, the Záncara River gorges, and historical villages like Belmonte and Alarcón.

Gastronomy: Flavors with Deep Roots

The local cuisine is rooted in traditional Manchegan dishes made with local ingredients:

• Gazpacho Manchego (meat stew with flatbread)
• Ajo arriero (garlic and cod paste)
• Morteruelo (game meat pâté)
• Pisto with egg (Manchegan-style ratatouille)
• Artisan Manchego cheese

• Wines from La Mancha and Ribera del Júcar DOs

   

The village has welcoming restaurants offering homemade dishes in a cozy atmosphere, such as Restaurante Universitas, which pays homage to the town's academic heritage.

How to Get There and Recommendations

Villaescusa de Haro is located about 90 km from the city of Cuenca and 160 km from Madrid. It is easily accessible via the N-420 or the A-3, with connecting routes to the CM-3111. It is also well connected to nearby towns like Tarancón, Belmonte, and Mota del Cuervo.

The best time to visit is spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and cultural events are held. For photography lovers, the sunset over the university ruins offers one of the most evocative views in La Mancha.

Villaescusa de Haro is a perfect destination for those who want to immerse themselves in the living history of Castilla-La Mancha. Its monumental heritage, academic past, and serene ambiance make it a unique spot for cultural and rural tourism.

Exploring Villaescusa is a journey into an illustrious past that still echoes through its streets. A hidden gem waiting to be rediscovered by curious travelers, art lovers, history buffs, and anyone drawn to the essence of La Mancha.